I was on a flight out of Mt Isa years ago, and I was seated beside a lady, 67 years of age, who was leaving the town for the very first time. 67 years and never left Mt Isa, and sadly it was for treatment for breast cancer. Often now, when I'm seated next to a nervous flyer, I wish I could reach out and hold hands for 2 hours, just like we two strangers, did on that flight.
This year, I've been away a lot. We now travel for work, and sometimes I find myself craving that big comfy bed that resides at 23 Centenary.
This year, I've slept in camps, pubs, castles, hotels and tents. I've also discovered it's not about where you sleep, but who you are with. Hugo, the kids, great friends and family. That's what matters.
I've been on the move so much, I've forgotten all the places where I've been this year. Reflecting on it, these last few days of 2014, I thought perhaps I better start recording more of my travels, in case dementia sets in and I not only forget where I'm going, but also where I've been.
Today. We are on a roadie to Brisbane. I was hoping all the kids could join me on one last holiday before they all grow up and start full time work. But, life and circumstance gets in the way... So we headed off with 3/5ths of my tribe, sleepily piled into the back seat of Fat Tony. Rounded the second corner before Chuck remembers his wallet, and back we go to grab it.
Just like small children, they snuggle up, leaning their heads on each other's shoulders, asleep again before the Ag College. The picture takes me back to road trips to Finley. 2000 kilometres with 4 kids under 2, and the big fella who would have been 10. How the hell did I do that on my own? Madness!
Today has been a quiet trip, with Hugo happily driving his pride n joy, kids sleeping and me reading.. It's a very guilty pleasure of mine, and I'm relishing the opportunity of 10 hours enforced reading time. Now, to make it to Brisbane before the weather turns.. 😄
